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Steven Coulson
Steven has been drinking beers, wines and spirits for decades and has a propensity to go about them at length after a few drinks.
Latest Posts
- 57/m: Love beer, but it doesn’t love me as much anymore
- No Stupid Questions Wednesday – ask anything about beer
- Does anyone else get treated like a beer snob for ordering literally anything that isn’t a macro lager?
- Is there a polite way to refuse a beer that’s being served in the wrong glassware without making everyone at the table uncomfortable?
- # What’s the most pretentious thing you’ve ever said about beer that you secretly didn’t understand yourself?
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When Your Love for Beer No Longer Loves You Back: Navigating Social Drinking in Midlife
As we navigate through life, it’s not uncommon to find that our relationships with certain pleasures evolve—sometimes in unexpected ways. For many, beer holds a nostalgic place, conjuring memories of happy gatherings and carefree moments. However, as we age, those beloved brews can turn into sources of discomfort.
A 57-year-old beer enthusiast reflects on this very dilemma, expressing the sentiment that while the love for a cold beer persists, the body is sending a different message. This individual enjoyed beer throughout life, even during his college years, yet never faced serious drinking issues, unlike some around him. Now, however, a couple of beers in the evening may result in unwelcome side effects like headaches and fatigue. This realization can be disheartening, especially when the social aspect of enjoying a drink with friends is so appealing.
The struggle lies in balancing the desire for connection with friends over a drink and the physical repercussions that accompany it. Many can relate to the difficulty of attending social gatherings at local breweries or pubs while battling the urge to partake in beers that once brought joy.
So, how does one continue to enjoy the camaraderie without compromising health and comfort? Here are a few strategies that could help:
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Explore Non-Alcoholic Options: The market has seen a significant rise in non-alcoholic and low-alcohol beers that maintain the essence of beer-drinking without the aftermath. These beverages can provide a similar taste experience without the unpleasant side effects.
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Engage in Alternative Activities: If the ritual of beer-drinking is a primary social activity, consider introducing new activities that don’t center around alcohol. Perhaps start a game night, attend a sports event, or try a cooking class. These alternatives can foster camaraderie without relying on beverages.
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Initiate Conversations with Friends: Sharing your experiences with fellow friends can foster a supportive environment. You might find that others feel the same way, leading to mutual exploration of healthier social rituals.
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Practice Moderation: If you still choose to enjoy beer, consider limiting your intake to one drink and pacing yourself. This approach can allow you to savor the experience without overwhelming your body.
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Choose Quality Over Quantity: Instead of focusing on having multiple drinks, consider indulging in a high-quality craft beer occasionally. The experience can feel more special and less habitual.
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